SKU code: definition, structure and best practices

SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) is a unique internal identifier per product or variant. Unlike EAN, you define it yourself, using whatever logic fits your operations: stock, logistics, procurement, reporting.

Why a good SKU changes everything

A clean SKU lets anyone in your team identify a product at a glance: category, brand, size, color. It pivots between Shopify/PrestaShop, your ERP, WMS and Excel reports.

Recommended structure

The most robust pattern: CAT-BRAND-MODEL-SIZE-COLOR.

• CAT: root category (TSH for t-shirt)
• BRAND: 2-3 letter brand code
• MODEL: model ID (3-4 chars)
• SIZE: XS, S, M, L, XL, 38, 40…
• COLOR: 3-letter color code

Example: TSH-NIK-AIR1-L-WHT for a Nike Air 1 t-shirt, size L, white.

Mistakes to avoid

• Using the EAN as SKU: GTINs can change between batches, breaking history.
• Recycling a deleted SKU: creates false positives in reporting.
• Encoding the price in the SKU: price evolves, SKU should not.
• Spaces, accents, special chars: breaks CSV exports.

SKU management in Seegea

Seegea checks uniqueness at input, applies a naming pattern, and auto-generates SKUs on creation. Bulk editing works by filter (a whole collection in 2 clicks), and every change creates a restorable version.

Bottom line

A clean SKU is an investment that pays off for years. Take the time to design it, document it, and use a tool like Seegea that enforces the rule for you.